European auto makers welcome constructive EU-US trade talks

Brussels, 26 July 2018 – The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) welcomes yesterday’s constructive dialogue between the President of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, and US President, Donald Trump.

“Our industry thrives best in an environment without trade barriers. Yesterday’s agreement to initiate bilateral negotiations that seek to reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade on industrial goods is a step in the right direction towards de-escalating trade tensions and addressing a trade-positive agenda,” stated ACEA Secretary General, Erik Jonnaert.

“Of course, there is a long way to go, and a lot of issues still need to be worked out,” Jonnaert cautioned. “However, we remain confident that the outcome will be positive for the EU and US economies as well as consumers on both sides of the Atlantic.”

EU-US auto-related trade currently accounts for some 10% of total trade between the two regions. Auto manufacturers active in both Europe and the US are global players with interests in both regions.